Near the banks of the Serpentine, where joggers and cyclists enjoy early morning routines, the sound of rackets striking balls echoes from newly established padel courts. A sport once unknown to many is now flourishing in the UK, with players of all ages and backgrounds showing up every day to test their skills in this fast-paced game.
Luigi Carraro, president of the International Padel Federation, is watching the surge in interest with growing confidence. 'London has a proven track record of identifying top-tier sports when it sees them,' he says. He points to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games as a turning point when the city opened itself to international sporting events, creating space for the NBA, NFL, and Formula E to establish their presence in the UK.
The origins and global appeal of padel
Padel traces its beginnings to Spain, Argentina, and Mexico, where it began as a recreational game. But in recent years, the sport has broken out of its regional roots and taken hold in regions as diverse as Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. The UK, though still early in its adoption, has shown rapid progress. New padel clubs are popping up weekly, and courts are constantly buzzing with activity.
According to Carraro, much of padel’s spread in London has been organic. A Londoner who learned the game during a trip to Madrid might teach the rules to a friend, who then brings it to colleagues or family members. What started as a curiosity for a few has now become a regular part of life for many in the city.
Premier Padel’s debut in London
Premier Padel, the sport’s world-class tour, has taken off globally with events held in 16 countries and broadcast in 244 territories. The decision to host an event in London wasn’t random—it was strategic. The Federation sees the city as a high-impact venue to elevate the sport’s visibility and credibility.
Tickets for the four-day Premier Padel tournament at Olympia have already sold out. For many attendees, it will be their first chance to see elite-level padel in action. The sport’s speed, physical demands, and tactical nature set it apart from traditional racket sports. Watching it live, Carraro notes, offers an experience that simply can't be captured on television.
The city’s role in padel’s expansion
Carraro says London’s openness to new sports has been key to attracting interest in padel. Attendees arrive with questions like 'What is this game?' and often leave asking where they can play nearby. The city's enthusiasm for new experiences helps padel continue to gain momentum.
London’s dynamic and inclusive approach to sports has long made it a hub for innovation. From hosting global events to welcoming new games, the city has made room for countless sports over the years. Carraro believes padel will find its place just as easily. The coming August event is a pivotal moment for the Federation, as it waits to see how the city’s response unfolds.